By Kenneth Marcos 
In a bid to ensure food safety and protect consumers, Philippine authorities are inviting key stakeholders to contribute to the new pesticide standards for durian and lettuce. The initial Stakeholder Consultation (SC) aims to gather expert input on Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for these high-demand crops.
Scheduled for March 12, 2026, the online consultation will be held via Google Meet starting at 9 a.m. Manufacturers, distributors, pesticide assessors, farmers, and analysts are encouraged to join and review the draft product standards. Participants will provide technical insights on safe pesticide use, residue monitoring, and compliance measures that balance crop protection with public health.
The consultation is part of the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (BAFS) effort to update the Philippine National Standards (PNS) for horticultural crops. Establishing clear MRLs helps protect Filipino consumers from unsafe pesticide levels while supporting local farmers in meeting both domestic and export requirements.
Draft documents and the program schedule are available online for review prior to the meeting. Authorities stress the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure practical, science-based regulations that benefit both producers and consumers.
This consultation marks a key step toward safer, more sustainable farming practices and stronger food safety standards in the Philippines.
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